🎙 Russia's President Vladimir Putin Address to the nation ahead of the 2026 State Duma elections 💬 Vladimir Putin: Friends, citizens of Russia, I consider it important to address you now, when our big country is going through a significant and largely definitive election campaign. In strict compliance with law and within the specified timeframe, we are electing members of the State Duma, legislative assemblies, governors of several regions, and members of municipal bodies. This extensive election campaign is taking place as we continue the special military operation. Residents of Donbass and Novorossiya will be voting for State Duma deputies for the first time since their reunification with Russia. I firmly believe that our soldiers and officers involved in this challenging work at the frontline will be among active voters. Their courage and loyalty to the Fatherland are exemplary for the entire nation. We know what Russia is fighting for and what the duty of every citizen is. Our heroes are forging victory on the battlefield. Everybody who is honestly working for the benefit of the country – and understand their responsibility for its future – are bringing this victory closer. Participation in the upcoming vote that is taking place during the Year of the Unity of the Peoples of Russia is also a responsibility and contribution to the country’s strength. ❗️ Your choice and determination will show once again that millions of people are backing our fighters and that we stand together, united by shared values, our historical memory, love for our Motherland, and that nobody can divide or intimidate us, undermine our statehood, our public and political system. Every vote matters. You and your personal choice will directly determine what political forces will represent people’s interests in the federal parliament, in the regions and in local governance. I am certain that, with your support and trust, the most deserving and competent candidates, the true patriots of Russia will come out as winners. Those will be candidates who will not let you down and who have proved their loyalty to the Motherland and their readiness to serve our nation and protect our country from any threats. Friends, 🗳 The voting will take place over three days, on September 18, 19 and 20. I urge you to exercise your constitutional right and make a thought-out and responsible decision, so that the election results attest to the maturity and resilience of Russian society. This will be our collective response to those who seek to undermine Russia, slow down its development, or strip away our sovereignty or our right to determine our own future. 🇷🇺 Participation in the elections is our joint contribution to Russia’s victory.